Faculty Profile
Patrice Kohl

Assistant Professor

Department of Environmental Studies
226 Marshall Hall

pakohl@esf.edu
315-470-6908

My research focuses on the role of communication, values, and beliefs in shaping public views about complex science and environmental issues. My current work includes research on public views relating to proposals to use CRISPR as a conservation tool, risks posed by space junk and creation of carbon sequestration markets through “climate smart” agricultural practices.

Before I became a communications scholar, I reported for two Alaska newspapers, writing primarily about fisheries and other environmental topics. I also worked on several outreach projects including an Alaska Department of Fish and Game effort to promote public understanding of salmon monitoring programs, a World Health Organization book documenting the impacts of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, and a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources wetland publication series.

Opportunities

Graduate Research Assistant position in Environmental Studies at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry

Major Advisor: Patrice Kohl

Project description: The graduate student will assist with interview and survey research examining public perceptions and understandings of carbon markets based on programs that pay farmers to adopt soil carbon sequestration practices, as well as how different ways of communicating about the topic may influence perceptions. Within this broader area, data collection will focus on views of carbon farming practices, uncertainties in measuring soil carbon, the use of carbon credits by companies to offset emissions, and trust in actors such as farmers, project managers and companies purchasing credits. The successful candidate will work as part of a collaborative team with expertise in environmental communication, agricultural law and policy, and soil science. The project aims to create participatory processes, legal best practice documents, and policy recommendations, regarding emerging soil carbon markets.

Desired qualifications:

• Excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with diverse members of a research team.
• Master’s degree
• Qualitative social science data collection and analysis skills (e.g., conducting interviews and analyzing transcripts)
• Quantitative social science data collection and analysis skills (e.g., survey design and statistical data analysis)

Support: The successful candidate will receive full tuition and a stipend for two semesters. Additional semesters of tuition and stipend support will be considered for highly qualified candidates.

How to Apply: I will consider applications on a rolling basis. Please email the following items to Dr. Patrice Kohl: a cover letter (1-2 pages) describing your qualifications, including academic and professional preparation, career goals, and interest in the specific project; a CV; the names and contact information for 3 references (you will be informed before they are contacted); and a writing sample provided as a PDF or link. Contact Dr. Patrice Kohl with questions or to discuss potential fit at pakohl@esf.edu